What you can do to prevent and treat breast cancer

Living healthily is an important way to prevent breast cancer. But you're still at risk even if you do all the right things. That's why early detection is so important. When cancer is found and treated early, you have a better chance of healing.

Consider these tips for early detection:

Talk with your doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts such as lumps, change in size of your breast, discharge from the nipple or change in color/texture of the skin on or around your breast.

Get regular checkups and as necessary.

Mammograms should be done every one to two years for women age 40 or older. Begin at 30 if you're at high risk.

Tips to help prevent breast cancer:

Develop healthy habits.

Limit alcohol. Eat low-fat foods and lots of fruits and vegetables. Try to stay close to the weight your doctor says is right for you. Exercise regularly.

Stop smoking.

When it comes to cancer, tobacco remains the single biggest risk. Smoking is responsible for at least a third of cancer deaths, according to the American Cancer Society.

Breastfeed.

If you plan to have a baby, breastfeeding can help lower the risk of breast cancer.

If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, your doctor will likely recommend a combination of treatments depending on the type of cancer, the stage of the cancer and your overall health. Common ways of treating breast cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy and immunotherapy.